Kenza

If you are looking for somewhere that serves delicious food and showcases live entertainment, then you need look no further than: ‘Kenza’.

Kenza serves authentic Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, whilst also promising that home cooked feeling with many of the recipes derived from the mothers and grandparents of the chefs. So I think it is fair to say that the food has that extra sentimental and personal value which makes it taste that bit more special!

However, the authentic tradition is not only threaded into their delicious food but also extends to the atmosphere. The restaurant has a traditional Middle Eastern feel, with dimmed lights and ornamental lanterns scattered across the ceiling to illume the room, as well as separate seating pods adorned with cushions of a traditional design. As soon as you walk through the doors you feel as if you have been transported away from the streets of London, as a glamorous and regal red carpet adorns the walkway outside, scattered with rose petals, which leads you towards a spiral staircase descending into the main body of the restaurant itself.

Photo Credit: Nasaybah Hussain

The food equally matches the restaurant’s authenticity. Food portions are of a decent size and very filling- you won’t be asking for more! I ordered a Shish Taouk; succulent chicken cubes marinated in garlic, lemon juice and spices, grilled on a skewer and accompanied by side dishes of rice and salad. Each bite became more and more flavoursome as different spices and aromatic undertones exploded like fireworks in my mouth. To drink, I decided on Touria, a vibrant cocktail composed of: passion fruit puree, pomegranate molasses and apple juice. This fruity and sweet concoction complimented the meal perfectly and left me thirsty to try more.

Photo Credit: Nasaybah Hussain

The culture is peppered within every aspect of the restaurant and the dessert is no exception to this rule. The Mango and Vanilla cheesecake, served with fresh mango topping was one of the nicest cheesecakes I have EVER had, with a perfect balance of sweetness and flavour, that means you want to savour each bite.

Photo Credit: Nasaybah Hussain

During the evening, Kenza has belly dancers that perform around the tables to traditional music and thus compliment the authenticity of the restaurant further, through offering a true insight into Middle Eastern culture.

Kenza is the perfect place to indulge in a little preview of the Middle East without having to get on a plane, and with its beautiful decor, beautiful food and beautiful setting, it is ideal for a cultural night out with friends or family.